The Bound Between Us

Chapter 845

Autumn's nerves weren't an act she was genuinely anxious about Daria.

Anastasia noticed right away. It seemed a bit over the top; Autumn had never been this tense, especially meeting Daria for the first time.

Katelyn strolled over, trying to keep things light. "Kids are always running into things. It's normal-no need to fuss."

She waved the nanny over. "Why don't you take Daria outside to play? Let us enjoy our tea for a bit."

The nanny moved to pick up Daria, but Autumn clung to her, a little too tightly. "She's got such delicate skin-one little bump and she could get hurt. I really like this kid. Let me hold her a little longer."

She didn't want to hand Daria over, and Katelyn's comment stung. Easy for her to say, when it's not her own granddaughter.

But Daria wasn't interested in Autumn's affection. She started to cry, wriggling away, reaching for Anastasia. "I don't want you! I want my mom! Mommy!"

She really did treat Anastasia like her mom.

Daria's temper kicked in, and she even tried to smack Autumn's hands away.

Katelyn scolded, "Daria, you can't hit people! Just like your mom-you've both got a wild streak."

Autumn's face fell, stung by the slap and Katelyn's words about her

granddaughter.

"Mrs. Walker, let me

her arms as Anastasia carried

and earshot, Autumn's worry only grew. What if Anastasia lost her temper with Daria?

look, thinking Autumn was just upset by Daria's outburst. "Don't let it get to you, Autumn. Daria's always

then, Emmie and Nancy woke up, their cries echoing through the house- either hungry or in need of

called the

Peace and quiet was out

calm, it was already time

turned to Autumn with an apologetic smile. "Sorry about today. Next time, let's just meet the two of us. Going out with the kids is

honestly. Mr. Walker and I never had any of our own, so seeing you with your grandkids makes me a

next time it's just us," Katelyn

loaded them into the car, with Anastasia buckling

the way home, Anastasia said offhandedly, "Mom, Mrs. Walker really seems to care about Daria. She was the first

maybe that's why. Anyway, let's drop

dislike for Daria was

wasn't convinced. She couldn't shake the feeling that Autumn treated Daria differently. If Autumn just loved kids, why was she so cold to Emmie

the twins were crying and Anastasia brought Daria back inside, she'd seen the look on

the twins finally quieted down and behaved, Autumn didn't try to play with them either. Most people couldn't

maybe next time you and Mrs. Walker meet, leave Emmie and Nancy at home. It's tough to relax when